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The Handmade Wedding

Once every so often, there are days that take your breath away… and Stuart & Leanne’s magical, handmade wedding was one of those days. The occasion had so much heart and soul; the speeches were heartfelt, the food was delicious, drinks flowed freely and the music got everyone kicking off their shoes and heading onto the dance floor without any prompting whatsoever.

The day was a product of couple’s family and friends helping out, and the pair’s great flair for casual elegance. The happy, easy vibe that they created was contagious to all throughout the day and into the night.

The wedding was held at Cockatoo Island, which is a quick ferry ride off the main Sydney Harbour. The island used to house convict workshops, an industrial school, a reformatory and was also a shipyard. The Island has recently been added to the World Heritage List and it’s big, rusty remnants have so much charm and character against the backdrop of a sparkling Sydney Harbour.

As we stepped off the ferry, there was a short walk up a picturesque path. Adorable chalkboard signs were scattered along the path to guide wedding guests to the ceremony. At the top of the walk my hyperventilating commenced (and not just because of the stairs) … the ceremony had a spectacular view of Sydney harbour and the decorating was a picture of understated elegance.

The bride was radiant and the groom so dapper. The ceremony was short yet heartfelt and while the rest of Sydney sweltered in a heat wave, this little spot seemed to be in fresh, breezy bliss. We sipped some champagne and soaked in the view before meandering down towards an large industrial warehouse for the reception.

The exterior of the reception location hinted at how unique the reception was to be, but nothing really prepared the guests for the magically decorated interior. Everything was just beautiful. Everything.